Minneapolis Shooting: ICU Nurse Alex Pretti, Former Veteran’s Hospital Staff, Fatally Killed by Border Patrol Officer

Minneapolis Nurse Fatally Shot By Federal Agent; Witnesses Dispute Initial Accounts

Minneapolis, MN – A United States Border patrol Officer shot and killed Alex J. Pretti, a 31-year-old intensive care unit Nurse, on Saturday, January 24th, 2026. The incident occurred in the 2700 block of South 17th Avenue, sparking immediate scrutiny and raising questions about the use of force by federal agents within city limits. Initial reports surrounding the event have been challenged by witness testimony,deepening the controversy.

The Shooting and Initial Reports

According to early statements, the Border patrol Officer initiated the shooting following an encounter with Pretti. Though, accounts from multiple witnesses, presented through sworn testimony, contradict claims that Pretti posed an immediate threat. These witnesses assert Pretti did not brandish a weapon. The circumstances that led to the initial interaction remain under investigation by local and federal authorities.this incident echoes a broader national conversation on police accountability and the role of federal law enforcement in urban areas.

Who Was Alex Pretti?

Alex Pretti was described by those who knew him as a kind, competent, and quiet individual. He was a dedicated healthcare professional, employed as an ICU Nurse at a local Veteran’s hospital and was valued by his colleagues and family. The loss has deeply affected the medical community and those who relied on his care.According to the American Nurses association, the nursing profession faces increasing stress and burnout, and the tragic death of a colleague highlights the challenges faced by frontline healthcare workers.

Key Facts Surrounding the Incident

Fact	Details
Victim	Alex J. Pretti, 31
Occupation	ICU Nurse at a Veteran’s hospital
Date of Incident	january 24, 2026
Location	2700 block of South 17th Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
Officer Involved	U.S. Border Patrol Officer (identity withheld)

Immigration Concerns and Federal Oversight

The shooting has further ignited debate over immigration enforcement policies and the extent of federal authority within city boundaries.Some officials and community leaders have expressed concern that the presence of federal agents, particularly those not directly involved in border security, may escalate tensions and lead to unneeded confrontations. This incident has brought renewed attention to the ongoing debate about the balance between local control and federal jurisdiction.

Calls for Transparency and Independent Investigation

Civil rights organizations and community activists are demanding a clear and independent investigation into the shooting.They argue that the involvement of federal agents necessitates an impartial review to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future. The demand for transparency comes as trust in law enforcement is already strained across the country. Public confidence in investigations is directly linked to the perceived impartiality of those conducting them, according to a 2024 Pew Research Center study.

As the investigation continues, the community is left grappling with grief, anger, and a demand for answers. The fate of the involved Border Patrol Officer remains unknown. What level of scrutiny should be applied to federal agents operating in urban areas? What lasting impact will this tragedy have on community-police relations in Minneapolis?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and help us continue to report on this developing story.

What were the circumstances and key facts surrounding the Minneapolis shooting that resulted in the death of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by a Border Patrol officer?

Minneapolis Shooting: ICU Nurse Alex Pretti,Former Veteran’s Hospital Staff,Fatally Killed by Border Patrol officer

Alex Pretti,a 37-year-old intensive care unit (ICU) nurse and former staff member at a Veteran’s Hospital,was fatally shot in Minneapolis on January 23,2026. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, involved a Border Patrol officer and has sparked immediate public outcry and demands for openness. This article details the known facts surrounding the shooting, the ongoing inquiry, and the impact on the Minneapolis community.

The incident: A Timeline of Events

Based on verified bystander videos obtained by CBS News and initial police reports, the sequence of events unfolded as follows:

1. Initial Encounter: Pretti was reportedly driving a vehicle when approached by a Border Patrol officer. the reason for the initial stop remains under investigation.
2. Escalation: Accounts suggest a verbal exchange occurred between pretti and the officer. The nature of this exchange is currently a key focus of the investigation.
3. Fatal Shooting: The Border Patrol officer discharged their firearm, striking Pretti. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were promptly called to the scene.
4. Pronouncement of Death: Despite the rapid response from EMS personnel, Alex Pretti was pronounced dead at the scene.
5. Officer Status: The involved Border patrol officer has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Who Was Alex Pretti?

Alex Pretti was a dedicated healthcare professional, deeply respected by colleagues and patients.

* ICU Nurse: Pretti worked as an ICU nurse, providing critical care to patients in need. This role demanded a high level of skill, compassion, and resilience.

* Veteran’s Hospital Service: Prior to their ICU position, Pretti was employed at a Veteran’s Hospital, serving those who have served our country. This background speaks to a commitment to public service.

* Community Involvement: Friends and family describe Pretti as an active member of the Minneapolis community,involved in local initiatives and known for their kindness.

* Professional Reputation: Colleagues have described Pretti as a highly skilled and compassionate nurse, dedicated to providing the best possible care for their patients.

The Investigation: Key Questions and Current Status

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is leading the investigation into the shooting. Several critical questions are being addressed:

* Justification for the Shooting: Was the use of deadly force justified under the circumstances? This will involve a thorough review of body camera footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence.

* Reason for Initial Stop: What prompted the border Patrol officer to initiate contact with Pretti’s vehicle? Understanding the reason for the stop is crucial to establishing the context of the incident.

* De-escalation Attempts: Did the officer attempt to de-escalate the situation before resorting to lethal force? De-escalation training and protocols are standard for law enforcement officers.

* Border Patrol Authority: What was the Border Patrol officer’s jurisdiction and legal authority to be operating in Minneapolis at the time of the shooting? This is a point of contention raised by community activists.

The BCA has stated thay are collecting and analyzing all available evidence, including:

* Bystander videos (verified by CBS News and other media outlets).

* Body camera footage from the involved officer.

* Dashcam footage from any other vehicles in the area.

* Forensic evidence from the scene.

* Statements from witnesses.

Community Response and Calls for Accountability

The shooting has ignited protests and demonstrations in Minneapolis, with community members demanding justice for Alex Pretti and accountability from law enforcement.

* Protests and Demonstrations: Vigils and protests have been held near the site of the shooting, with participants calling for a thorough and transparent investigation.

* Demands for Transparency: Activists are demanding the release of all evidence related to the shooting, including body camera footage and police reports.

* Calls for Police reform: The incident has renewed calls for broader police reform, including increased accountability, improved training, and a re-evaluation of the role of Border Patrol within city limits.

* Legal Depiction: The Pretti family has retained legal counsel and is preparing to pursue all available legal options.

Understanding Border Patrol’s Role in Minneapolis

The presence of Border Patrol officers operating within Minneapolis has become a focal point of the controversy. While Border patrol has broad authority to operate within a reasonable distance of the U.S. border, the extent of that authority within a major metropolitan area like Minneapolis is being questioned.

* 100-Mile Rule: Traditionally, Border Patrol operations are generally limited to within 100 miles of the U.S.border. However, this rule has been subject to interpretation and expansion in recent years.

* Interior Enforcement: Border Patrol has increased its focus on interior enforcement, targeting individuals suspected of immigration violations even far from the border.

* Local Concerns: Minneapolis residents and city officials have expressed concerns about the potential for racial profiling and the impact of increased Border Patrol presence on community trust.

Resources and Support

For those seeking more details or wishing to offer support:

* Minnesota Bureau of criminal Apprehension (BCA): https://bca.mn.gov/

* Local News Outlets: Stay updated with reporting from local Minneapolis news sources.